Fortaleza de Nossa Senhora dos Prazeres, Portuguese colonial fortress on Mel Island, Paranaguá, Brazil.
Fortaleza de Nossa Senhora dos Prazeres is a defensive installation on Mel Island off Paranaguá, built from stone with thick walls and functional spaces for garrison troops. The structure follows the natural terrain of the island and shows the typical layout of coastal fortifications from the colonial period.
The fortress was built in the second half of the 18th century under Portuguese rule to protect the coast from unauthorized maritime traffic. It embodies Portuguese military strategy for securing its southern Brazilian possessions during this era.
The fortress carries the name of Our Lady of Pleasures, reflecting the religious devotion that Portuguese colonists wove into their military structures. Visitors can sense this connection today through the details of the layout and its symbolic role in local memory.
Access is by boat from Paranaguá, with the crossing to the island taking some time and weather conditions worth considering. Sturdy footwear and sun protection are wise choices, as the terrain is uneven and the island offers little shade.
The stones for the walls came from a nearby hill, showing how builders used local resources and adapted to existing topography. This practical approach to sourcing materials remains visible in the structure today.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
